Nick LeDonne is an independent animator using his voice to make a positive impact. His debut short film, HANGING (2016) screened internationally in 28 countries earning numerous awards such as "Best Animated Short" of the Catalina Film Festival, SOHO International Film Festival, and the "AFA" jury prize at ANNY: Best of Fest in NYC. During this time LeDonne was also invited to lecture his processes including an animation masterclass on HANGING at the largest arts venue in Europe, the Barbican Centre in London.

HANGING visualizes LeDonne's own personal journey ​overcoming ​suicide which has sparked discussions screening at distinguished conferences such as the Canadian Mental Health Association's MH4A national conference, the 44th American Psychotherapy Association's Winter Symposium, and the 26th European Congress of Psychiatry: aiding professionals in opening life saving conversations about suicide around the world through animation filmmaking. ​

Currently he is a professor in Digital Media at the Pennsylvania College of Art and Designand the Department of Fine Arts at Rutgers University-Camden while he continues to create animated films. DEAR DAD (2018)is a heartfelt goodbye letter to his late father premiering at film festivals this Fall. His following film, REACHINGOUT (2019) re-tells his own personal coming out story about finding acceptance.

​Additionally his animated work has been covered through various press including Animation Magazine, Cartoon Brew, and Animation World Network. LeDonne also speaks to high schools and colleges through his speaking program, From Hanging to Hang ON, where he addresses suicide prevention, family passings, and LGBTQ acceptance by mixing his animation and life story to give an inspirational message to youth.

HANG ON| speaking events

Please enjoy a short video promo below showcasing From Hanging to Hang ON, an hour long​ public speaking program highlighting LeDonne's personal story of overcoming suicideas told through his award winning animated films documenting personal traumas.

"As fervent supporters of mental health patients, their families, and their careers, the EPA was happy to include showings of Mr. LeDonne's short film "Hanging" during the 2018 European Congress of Psychiatry, where delegates from around the world were able to relate their own experiences through his poignant and emotional illustrated journey. "

"Nick LeDonne's story, as seen through his art, is a must see! It is hard to believe that just a few short years ago Nick was ​on the verge of suicide. Thankfully, through sheer willpower, determination, and a loving family, Nick found the power within to create his own future and telling his tragic tale by the beauty of animation."​​

- Jessica Mlecz, RCNJ Pre-Doctoral Intern.Hang ON Event Coordinator for Ramapo College of New Jersey